The Executive Secretary of the Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (YOSEMA), Dr. Mohammed Gone, and the branch Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Bishop Yohanna Audu, have officially confirmed the tragic incident in Kwari Area, Asheikri Ward of Gaidam local government area. The pastor of the Church of Christ In Nations (COCIN) and five other individuals lost their lives during an attack by suspected Boko Haram terrorists over the weekend.

Details of the victims revealed five men and one woman who were killed instantly. Additionally, seven houses and a COCIN church were burned to ashes, and a vigilante officer lost his life due to Unexploded Ordnances (UXO). An UXO explosion also resulted in the death of one personnel from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) while injuring three other military personnel.

Gaidam, located approximately 180km from Damaturu, the Yobe state capital, has experienced several attacks in the past. This recent assault follows closely after armed terrorists invaded Chibok communities, killing 11 people and abducting a woman.

Over the weekend, terrorists ambushed the Damaturu-Buratai-Biu Road, abducting several motorists and passengers. Dr. Goje, the YOSEMA Executive Secretary, stated that the agency received a distress call and promptly mobilized to the scene. Based on their assessment, six individuals, including the pastor, were killed, seven houses were destroyed, and one church was burned down.

Bishop Yohanna Audu of CAN expressed deep sorrow over the barbaric and anti-religious attacks on the COCIN Church. He lamented the invasion of the pastor’s house, the killing of the pastor and other members, and the subsequent burning of the church, describing the events as unfortunate.

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